A 22-year-old man fatally shot a 38-year-old Sacramento woman outside a Panera Bread restaurant on September 8, according to Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office investigators. The suspect, Rohit Rohit, then fled the scene before shooting himself as deputies closed in, authorities said.
The victim, Shalini Thakur, was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators allege Rohit had stalked Thakur for months, beginning in January when she discovered an Apple AirTag hidden under the hood of her vehicle. He later deflated her tires, followed her to work, and entered her apartment while she slept, claiming he was concerned after she did not respond to his communications.
Thakur obtained a restraining order in May, which Rohit allegedly violated in July by leaving groceries at her door. Deputies were unable to locate him at the time, despite having probable cause for arrest, authorities said.
The Attack and Pursuit
Deputies responded to the Panera Bread location on Howe Avenue after a 911 call reported a shooting around 3:00 PM on September 8. Witnesses described Rohit chasing Thakur before shooting her multiple times. After she fell, he stood over her body and fired a fatal shot to the head, investigators stated.
A bystander photographed Rohit’s license plate, which deputies entered into a Flock camera system. The vehicle was located nearby along Highway 50, where deputies attempted to contact Rohit. He then abruptly stopped his car and fatally shot himself, authorities confirmed.
Background: Months of Alleged Harassment
Investigators allege Rohit’s campaign of harassment began in January 2024, when Thakur found the AirTag in her car. Additional incidents included:
- Deflating her tires
- Following her to her workplace
- Entering her apartment while she slept, claiming he was worried after she did not respond to messages
- Violating a restraining order in July by leaving groceries at her door
Thakur’s family has not publicly commented on the case. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the full scope of Rohit’s actions and potential connections to Thakur prior to the attack.